Negreira case could finally reach verdict by end of 2027 as investigation nears conclusion

The Negreira case is moving towards a potentially decisive stage, with the long-running investigation involving Barcelona now expected to conclude before the end of 2026 and a verdict expected in 2027, according to MARCA.

As already reported, the judge has rejected Real Madrid’s request to extend the investigation by another six months.

Real Madrid had sought additional time to search for further evidence relating to the alleged sporting corruption offence, but the judge considers the existing investigation period sufficient.

Barcelona are being investigated regarding the €7.3 million paid by Barcelona between 2001 and 2018 to Negreira and his son, Javier.

Investigation could close this year

There are still some pending steps before the investigative phase formally ends.

Gerard Lopez is expected to give evidence in November, while outstanding appeals and other proceedings are expected to be dealt with before the end of 2026.

Real Madrid have been dragging out the Negreira investigation. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Real Madrid can appeal the decision refusing the six-month extension to the Provincial Court. However, the current expectation is that the investigation is approaching its definitive conclusion.

After the remaining proceedings, the prosecution and defence would submit their final written conclusions. The case would then move towards a potential trial.

For Barcelona, that would represent a significant procedural development after more than three years of investigation and intense public scrutiny.

Trial date could be set in autumn 2027

The next stage could nevertheless require considerable patience. Depending on the sentences sought, the case would be transferred either to a criminal court or the Provincial Court of Barcelona.

It is then up to the court and its caseload to determine how quickly a trial date can be secured.

Autumn 2027 is considered a realistic window, with October or November currently being floated.

Verdict in late 2027. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

The trial itself could last between one and two weeks, and a verdict could be expected by the end of 2027.

Barcelona still face a long wait

For Barça, this has been a long-drawn-out saga that has brought a lot of public scrutiny in recent seasons.

The key development is that the case appears to be moving away from an open-ended investigation and towards a stage where the allegations can finally be contested at trial.

Barcelona supporters have already watched the Negreira case hang over the club for years. Even under the current timeline, definitive legal clarity may still be more than a year away.

The Catalans will be keen to put this saga behind them sooner rather than later, and it remains to be seen how matters unfold in this case over the next 12 to 15 months.